Variable Pulse Interval rTMS for EEG-Adaptive Brain Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rTMS treatments deliver a single frequency at a set intensity, which may not effectively modulate brain activity for various physiological and clinical conditions, as they do not account for individual EEG signal variations.
Innovation Solution
Administering repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation with variable pulse intervals determined by a patient's EEG signal analysis using a wavelet transform algorithm, allowing for multiple frequencies and intensities tailored to each patient's unique EEG pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single frequency at a set intensity is used for rTMS treatment, then the treatment protocol is simple and easy to implement, but the effectiveness in modulating brain activity is limited because it does not account for individual EEG signal variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed-frequency rTMS protocol into a dynamic system where the stimulation frequency and intensity are continuously adjusted based on real-time EEG signal analysis. The system dynamically adapts to each patient's unique brain wave patterns, allowing the treatment to evolve from a rigid protocol to a flexible, responsive therapy that optimizes brain activity modulation effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the key parameters of rTMS treatment from fixed values to variable parameters. By analyzing EEG signals to identify dominant frequency bands and power densities, the system adjusts stimulation frequency, pulse interval, and intensity parameters to match individual patient characteristics, thereby improving treatment effectiveness while maintaining operational feasibility through automated control.
2Reliability
If variable pulse intervals based on individual EEG characteristics are used, then the modulation of brain activity is improved and tailored to each patient, but the complexity of the treatment system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where EEG signals are continuously monitored and analyzed during rTMS treatment. The wavelet transform algorithm processes the EEG data in real-time to identify dominant frequency bands and power densities, which then feed back to adjust the stimulation parameters. This feedback mechanism automates the complexity, allowing the system to adapt to individual patient characteristics without requiring manual intervention for each adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational layer (wavelet transform algorithm) that bridges the gap between raw EEG signals and rTMS parameter adjustments. This intermediary processes the complex EEG data to extract meaningful features (dominant frequencies, power densities) and translates them into actionable stimulation parameters, thereby managing system complexity through structured data processing rather than direct complex hardware control.
3Loss of time
If traditional single-frequency rTMS is used, then the treatment duration and protocol are straightforward, but the ability to target specific brain wave bands with abnormal power density is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the broad rTMS treatment approach into frequency-specific targeted interventions. By using wavelet transform to identify dominant frequency bands (e.g., delta, theta, alpha, beta, gamma) and their corresponding power densities, the system divides the treatment into precise frequency targets. This segmentation allows the therapy to address specific abnormal brain wave bands individually, improving precision in targeting while maintaining overall treatment efficiency through automated frequency identification.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach leads to improved modulation of brain activity, as evidenced by increased amplitude or relative power density in targeted brain wave bands, resulting in symptom improvements for conditions such as autism, depression, PTSD, and other disorders.
Implementation Method 1
rTMS is delivered by an apparatus that is comprised of magnetic coils that provide pulsed magnetic fields
Data Source
AI summary
A method of modulating a brain activity of a mammal is achieved by subjecting the mammal to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with an rTMS apparatus at variable pulse intervals for a time sufficient to modulate said brain activity. Improvement in a physiological condition or a clinical condition is achieved. Conditions to be treated include but are not limited to PTSD, autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease. Wavelet transform analysis is used to determine the variable pulse intervals employed.